A research partnership including biology, science, engineering, business, and industry experts is working on producing a low-carbon 'bio bitumen' made from algae.
The team is trying to use algae as a biomass source material to produce the bio-bitumen, described as 'a black, viscous, water-repellent material that resembles petroleum-derived bitumen but offers a significant carbon reduction'.
Led by carbon removal company CO2CO Ltd, the team also includes materials giant Tarmac; Nanolyse Technologies Ltd, a sustainable materials innovations company; Imperial College London and the University of Sheffield.
Tarmac will complete live laboratory testing of the material at its technical facilities in Ettingshall.
The Tier one company said that although the innovation is at an early stage, it 'could be used for large-volume production of different grades of bio-bitumen that meet UK industry standards if scaled up'.
The next phase is to develop the technology to be further tested in relevant environments.
Tim Smith, regional technical manager (South East) at Tarmac, said: 'Early-stage research has shown that the bio-bitumen derived from algae could be a very viable alternative to the energy-intensive process of traditional bitumen production.
'It provides the same properties but offers significant carbon savings when compared to petroleum-derived bitumen. However, to maximise the environmental benefits, we also need to complete thorough testing and development to ensure these new bio-bitumens are as durable and recyclable as possible, and do not affect the performance of the finished asphalt material.'
Dr Imad Ahmed, CEO at Nanolyse Technologies Ltd, added: 'We’ve only scratched the surface with the potential applications of our bio-bitumen material. Our ability to fine-tune this material's chemical structure and viscoelastic properties provides sustainable solutions for various industrial applications, including construction, waste management, catalysis, and agriculture.'
Philip Slaughter, CEO at CO2CO Ltd, commented: 'Active support from Innovate UK and Tarmac enabled this collaborative research and innovation.
'Together,[we have] unlocked a novel, sustainable product that could materially reduce carbon emissions in the construction industry. We are thrilled to continue deepening our relationships with academic and industry partners as we continue our work to decarbonise our biosphere.'
